Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter.
Neurotransmitters are chemical signals made by neurons to send information to associated receptors.
These receptors receive or block signals and process them into cellular action.
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Acetylcholine signals your muscles to contract.
It also plays a role in cognition and can affect behaviors such as motivation and attention.
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What Is Acetylcholine?
Acetylcholine is aneurotransmitterfound in the central nervous system (CNS) andperipheral nervous system(PNS).
Naturally occurring acetylcholine was first identified in 1914 by British physiologist Sir Henry Dale from London.
It was named after its structure.
Acetylcholine is made of acetic acid (ethanoic acid) andcholine(a nutrient similar to B vitamins).
Dilates Blood Vessels
Acetylcholine plays a role in regulating blood pressure.
Causes Erections
Thepenisis made of smooth muscle that is actually contracted in its flaccid state.
This offers a relaxing effect, allowing for erection to occur.
Slows Heart Rate
Acetylcholine is the predominant neurotransmitter in the parasympathetic nervous system.
Examples include:
Imbalance and Deficiency
Acetylcholine sends messages along nerve cells through the nervous systems.
All of your bodys movements depend on this communication.
This means any disruption to acetylcholine functioning compromises this process and can result in illness.
Acetylcholine in the brain also plays crucial roles in memory and cognitive functioning.
As such, it is associated with higher brain functions and some neurodegenerative brain diseases.
Alzheimer’s Disease
People with Alzheimer’s disease have low levels of acetylcholine.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects the muscles and causes involuntary movements and tremors.
Research suggests that an imbalance of acetylcholine may play a role in the development of this condition.
Toxins and Venom
Organophosphates are insecticides that interfere with the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine.
The venom of the black widow spider also affects acetylcholine.
Cholinergic nerve receptors are those that receive and bind with acetylcholine.
They can be found all over the body, including in muscle tissue.
In such cases, anticholinergic drugs may be necessary.
Certain toxins and venoms can also interfere with acetylcholine, causing severe health problems.
Talk to your healthcare provider about whether or not these treatments are right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Acetylcholine is critical in the healthy functioning of your heart.
It helps to regulate your heartbeat, blood pressure, and heart muscle contractions.
Acetylcholinesterase is a cholinergic enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine into acetic acid and choline.
This enzyme is found at postsynaptic neuromuscular junctions, especially in muscles and nerves.
For example, acetylcholine imbalance associated with brain conditions may be treated differently than that of asthmatic conditions.
Your doctor can help determine what, if any, medication is necessary.
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